What is more important for theoretical physics: Complex analysis or EM II?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the importance of complex analysis versus Electromagnetism II (EM II) for students pursuing theoretical physics, particularly in particle theory. The original poster is balancing a demanding course load, including particle physics, EM II, general relativity, and differential geometry, while also engaging in research. There is a consensus that a strong foundation in mathematics, including complex analysis and differential geometry, is essential for future research, as it supports advanced topics in physics. Some participants suggest that EM II is a core course but emphasize that mastering mathematics is crucial and that EM II can potentially be self-studied later. The overall recommendation leans towards not dropping any math courses to ensure a comprehensive understanding necessary for specialization in physics.
LBloom
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Hello all,

I'm curious as to the opinion of some people here about what is more important: Complex analysis or EM II for someone interested in going into theoretical physics (mainly particle theory). I have a hectic workload for next semester. I'm taking particle physics, EM II, grad relativity, diff geo. I'm also finishing up research from the summer in optics and doing some work in an AMO lab.

I feel that complex analysis is important for more advanced topics in physics, but on the other hand EM II seems like a core physics course. I last took EM I fall of sophomore year so I don't know if it will look good to be taking it spring of Senior year. Or should I take EM II and complex and drop something like diff geo since I am taking relativity? Any thoughts?

Thanks!
 
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I think you shouldn't drop anyone math course(i.e complex analysis and differential geometry).A good foundation in undergraduate maths is crucial for being a researcher.And also you might not know which field you specialize in future.You will find EM II is nothing after you have mastered those maths.(you can even learn it on your own).
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

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